That much wind means some very big and nasty waves. To give you an idea of the conditions, they were similar to and possibly worse than those of the terrible 1998 Sydney to Hobart Race. We experienced a total of 4 knockdowns, the second was the most severe with the mast being pushed 180 degrees in to the water. Actually pushed isn't the right word, it would be more accurate to say that Ella's Pink Lady was picked up, thrown down a wave, then forced under a mountain of breaking water and violently turned upside down.
With everything battened down and conditions far too dangerous to be on deck, there wasn't anything I could do but belt myself in and hold on. Under just the tiny storm jib, the big electric autopilot did an amazing job of holding us on course downwind, possibly or possibly not helped by my yells of encouragement! It was only the big rogue waves that hit at us at an angle (side on) that proved dangerous and caused the knockdowns.
The solid frame of the targa (the frame that supports the solar panels) is bent out of shape and warped (see pic below), which provides a pretty good idea of the force of the waves. Solid inch thick stainless steel tube doesn't exactly just bend in the breeze, so I think you could say that Ella's Pink Lady has proven herself to be a very tough little boat!
With my whole body clenched up holding on, various objects flying around the cabin and Ella's Pink Lady complaining loudly under the strain, it was impossible to know what damage there was on deck. It was a little hard at times to maintain my positive and rational thoughts policy, but overall I think I can say that the skipper held up us well as Ella's Pink Lady. It was certainly one of those times when you start questioning exactly why you're doing this, but at no point could I not answer my own question with a long list of reasons why the tough times like that aren't totally worth it!
So in the middle of all the drama, back at home Mum received just about the worst phone call possible from the Australian Rescue Coordination Center (RCC), telling her that one of my EPIRBs (emergency signaling devices) had been activated. One of the knockdowns had caused the automatic EPIRB mounted under the dodger to turn on without me knowing. Luckily I called in only a few minutes later before anyone could really start to panic. I was pretty annoyed at the stupid thing for going off and giving everyone such a scare!
We didn't come though completely un-scathed though, as there's plenty of minor damage, but luckily nothing bad enough to stop us. Actually I think it's a huge credit to our rigger David Lambourne, that the that mast is still standing and appears in perfect working condition. So other than the wonky looking targa, the starboard solar panel is all bent up and the windvane is now sitting on a bit of an angle, but amazingly and very luckily, it still works fine (go Parker!). There are also a few tears in the mainsail and one of the stanchions is bent in.
Down below, the cabin was a totally disaster zone, everything is wet or damp. The dunny (toilet) which fell apart, was in pieces spread from one end of the boat to the other, along with other equipment. The meth stove wont light, but will hopefully fire up when it dries out a little more.
After clearing up the worst of it and despite finally managing some good sleep, I still feel like a giant marshmallow. Physically, my arms and legs are all heavy and pathetic and of course I have a lovely collection of bruises! Mentally, I feel like I've aged a good 10 years, but I'm back to normal now and in good spirits as we approach the half way mark.
When the wind had finally calmed down, I was treated to a pretty incredible sunset and as I was clearing things up on deck, a couple of dolphins stopped by just as if they were checking that we were all OK.
I owe a huge thanks to Bruce, who was completely perfect, saying just the right things on the phone every time I called in and also to Bob who stayed up through the night to keep me updated on when the wind could be expected to ease.
I could go on forever, but better finish up as this has turned into a total novel and there's plenty still to do!
Jesse
Pic: The bent tubing on the targa frame from a rogue wave!
883 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 801 – 883 of 883Hay Jess,
very nice to see, that u r ok!
have a good time, and all the best
for you and ellas pink lady.
best regards from austria (very cold here at the moment).
Walt
To Commenters,
I just had an insight into what Jesse might have been doing in the wet seat (port setee) while strapped in during the storm. She mentioned that the boat was being steered by the electric auto pilot (not Parker).If you remember from earlier she has a wireless device called the commander, that can control the autopilot, and because it is networked, can display course heading, wind speed, boat speed, etc.
So imagine this. You could actually make course corrections while in the bunk while looking at the readouts. I can imagine Jesses eyes getting wide as the wind speed climbed higher and higher, as the boat ran off through the night. I wonder how fast the boat got going?
She was sailing the boat like a radio control sailboat on a pond, except with a big difference.
She is inside it, and it is in a raging storm in the South Atlantic!
Here is a link to a Youtube of an Alaskan fishing vessel getting knocked on it's beam ends by a rogue wave. It will help you visualize what Jesse went through!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_8hOai9hGQ&feature=player_embedded
Happy Australia Day Jesse!
Richard W
So guys, seeing as Jess is busy, what will she do if the cooker doesn't work? Eating cold package food can't be great. I wonder if she has a plan B?
Hope she has lots of chocolate.
Also someone wrote that they finally know how to get the colour swiggle next to their name. Can anyone tell me what that means?
Also laughed at the comment about Jess's Mum having a Bex and a good lie Down. Most Non-Aussies won't know that that used to be an advert years ago and Bex was a horrible powdered substance that came in a folded piece of paper to remove headaches. I even think it was pink in colour as my mum had them in the medicine cupboard. Anyway women were told that the way to fix any pain was to have a Bex and a good lie down. Not sure that non baby boomers in Australia would be familiar with the term either.
Oh well, off to have my Bex.
Cheers Griff Hillarys Perth WA.
Hi again,
Mike D (Thanks for the heads up)
Humour is a very fragile communication both in time and in place.
I knew I was a little bit wrong (electric auto-pilot) but it's no big deal really, that's what Google's for.
Most of us are over forty so there's no need for the diatribe(putdown)
Just as long as we're all having fun watching her quest.
As Jessica's mum was quoted as saying..."It's not about the record anymore."(SMH 25.01.10)
Happy Australia Day Jessica and all the support crew and also the Jessaholics.
Hoo Roo.
The stories are all true, you are a truly remarkable young woman. Thanks to the gods you are safe. I hope the repairs can be made relatively easily, and that you find all the bits to rebuild the dunny! Keep well. Continue....
The rest will be easy now Jesse!
Sorry fellow bloggers Oh and of course you too Jess.
Forgot to say "Happy Australia Day!" Love this day, but it does seem unAustralian that you won't be able to drink at Sky show in Perth this year. Shame the idiots ruin things for the rest of us.
Proud to be an Aussie, and hope that our wonderful flag that some seem hell bent on changing, is flying over Jess's boat and that you get to celebrate today with something special if the cooker has dried out.
How is the loo coming along as well? Guess out at sea you at least can use alternative measures if you must.
Also Jess have you thought about putting a message in a bottle and flinging it overboard just to see where in the world it turns up. I know that is not ecologically friendly, but hey, there's not too many round the worlders out there at the moment.
Today's Inspirational Quote:
"Seek out that particular mental attribute which makes you
feel most deeply and vitally alive, along with which comes the
inner voice which says, 'This is the real me,' and when you
have found that attitude, follow it."
-- James Truslow Adams
Hi Jessica
Its official – you have now passed your halfway mark, and along the way you have earned the justified respect of sailors and non-sailors all around the world for the way you are achieving your goals.
Congratulations for your progress to date. It is wonderful to be advised by your shore team that you are 1,500nm ahead of your planned schedule. By my calculation that means you are about two weeks ahead. Well done – actually “well done” doesn’t really express it – it is a marvelous achievement. You are now truly homeward bound.
Some ‘armchair sailors’ have written to you expressing their thoughts that you should throw ropes out the back to slow EPL down, etc. I’m tired of hearing this sort of advice.
Jessica has her own advisers – a good careful read of what she has written shows that she can, and does, contact Bruce, her sailing mentor and Bob, her meteorologist for advice. They know her. They know Ella’s Pink Lady. And they know what equipment she has on board, and what it is most appropriate to use for the conditions she faces.
I know it is part of armchair sailing to make suggestions and to comment on what the sailors out there on the horizon should or should not do. This happens at Yacht Clubs every weekend when a race is on, and it is similar to the ‘advice’ shouted by supporters at a football match. In a sense this blog is a forum for Jessica’s supporters to voice their support and that is what it should be – without the expression of opinions that she should do this or she should do that. Keep those ideas out of it. Enjoy the success she has that results from the way she is handling each challenge.
Jessica, the shore team has also advised of another expected low pressure system. I hope you are able to avoid this or at least avoid the full force of it. If you read this after the event I hope it was not too bad. Stay positive –I know you will and continue to sail home with pride and confidence.
If you want to sing for Australia Day you could join in with the Qantas Kids by googling “I Still Call Australia Home”. There are a number of versions of the Qantas advert on You-Tube – I like the original 1998 version the best. I’ll leave you with the thought Someday, in May, we’ll all be together again, when Jess and Ella’s Pink Lady come back to the shores of Sydney Harbour....
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
Aussie Day Slang Salute,
G’day Jesse,
You are a fair dinkum, true blue Aussie trooper, who has surprised the flamin’ heck out of us with your guts. As the crow flies, you are comin’ round from the west back round to the cockroach state, then home to cane toad country before you know it.
You have been flat out like a lizard drinkin’ after that bingle with old grey beard, so I am hoping you are taking a load off. Some say you are just a mere ankle biter, but I know different. I can tell you are a true larrikin and a ridgy didge sailor and your no wuss. You are somewhere out there in the ocean, like the never never, not within a Cooeee. Everyone misses ya.
Try not go spittin’ the dummy because your not home for Australia day. You will be back here in a jiffy. You are a top sheila Jesse and everyone luv’s ya. We won’t let anyone come the raw prawn with you, or else they will get a wallaby shoved up their didgeridoo. That goes for low pressure weather systems as well…. EPL is just spiffy and built like a brick sh1thouse.
No doubt some Aussie yobbos here will be as full as a goog and have the wobbly boot on before the days out. Too much turps. All my very best to your lations your old fella and old bag and particular mention to your sheepshagger ones. I love em too. (With all due respect I hope they are not cross as a frog in a sock, for me sayin’ that.)
Well I gotta do the Harold Holt and go grab myself a couple of handles.
Happy Australia Day Jesse. Cheers Paula.
G'day Jesse,
It's now Australia Day so what more can I say but
AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE
OI OI OI
AUSSIE
OI
AUSSIE
OI
AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE
OI OI OI
I'll chuck a chop and a sausage on the barbie for you, and will think of you as we stretch our legs and crunch on a fresh salad.
Your voyage epitomises the Aussie spirit of giving it a go and the support you get shows the Aussie spirit of supporting the battler is still alive.
Well done on getting half way. Not long now.
Stay safe and well clipped in. And if it starts to get too tough remeber we are all supporting you and that you have every bit of that Aussie toughness you need to get through.
After all you did give Neptune his chocolate so I'm sure he won't throw anything at you that you and EPL can't handle.
It's a gubber the dunny got bust up. I hope it is still functional and you are not going to have to face 100 days of peeing in a bucket!!
Did you pack lots of gaffer tape?
That stuff will fix anything.
Cheers and All the Best
John
Broolot - what an appropriate verification word
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Jesse. Hope you get everything back in order so that your onward journey can continue without too many problems with equipment etc.
You are one tough little cookie.
Judi,Sydney
@ Richard in Maryland: Very likely scenario ie. Jessica in the port setee drivin' the boat on instruments. If I rememeber the boat layout correctly (from her video tour) that display was set up facing her nav station, hence she's be looking at the back side from the setee. She must have a repeater placed on the forward bulkhead (or a doubled sided display at the nav station)
Imagine this: If she's seeing the repeater display, she's facing forward, hence "her head" and the display are in sync (ie. port is to left ,etc.) IF she's facing aft (ie. the nav display is double sided) she's drivin' while facing where she's been. That's a mind twister.
Strong girl, that one.
BTW: I think my comments on the "dunny" didn't make the blog. I can imagine that she's just closed off the sea cock (water outlet valve) and is using the time honored sailor's fall back when the head goes south- the bucket.
Steve in California
To gsimmons and anyone else interested.
Some time ago Jonathan@ Tooradin set up a blog site to enable people interested in joining together to celebrate Jessica’s return to Sydney. Through this site a number of possibilities have been put forward and planning for some is under way. You can access the page at http://jessaholic.blogspot.com/ and read what has been discussed so far.
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
WOW! So Glad You're Okay!!
Just Dropping In To Say
'HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY!!!!'
Cassie xx
Hi Jessica, I am sorry to hear that you had such a bad time at sea. You seemed to handled every really well though.
Here in Australia, it is Australia Day, so I thought I would send you a Happy Australia Day message even though you are obviously in a different time zone.
Take care Jess and my thoughts and prayers are with you,
Regards Bern in Caloundra, Q'ld
Hi The Griffs a bit of trivia... Bex are white it's the Vincent's powders that are pink.Many years ago (now I'm showing my vinatge) there was a stage play called "A Cup of Tea, A Bex and A Good Lie Down" .
If i'd have been Jesse's mum I'd have had one of each LOL
We in Australia today are celebrating our national day (Australia day)
I have just watched our Prime Minister Keven Rudd devote at least one third of his Australia Day address to the nation to Jessica Watson.
I hope some one will post the transcript of his speech so the rest of the world can share our feelings towards Jess
Robert
Brisbane
To Mary, Maine, USA
"p.s. PWB, this blog is to, for, with, and about Jessica. It's not a place for any of us to spotlight ourselves....
bizarro writing is often accompanied by drinking....as one of our levelheaded bloggers said a while ago, if we drink and write, hold off sending a post until the next day, rereading what was said. Is it okay to send? Or off the wall?
It's not fair to play with peoples' heads when we're trying to support Jessica."
His humour is Aussie humour, there's a bit of the larikin in him and a lot of Aussies are like this. No malice intended by him, just a few laughs.
And his posts have given me quite a few laughs.
Plus he's a country lad......from out bush. They have a sense of humour all of their own.
Happy Australia Day Jess!!!
Lily in Hervey Bay, Queensland.
G'Day Jesse,
First off "Happy Australia Day" for tomorrow as you are a day behind Aussie time.
Having witnessed sea states that you have just experienced from the air with winds up to 90kts plus I can assure all bloggers that you have fared bloody well to come out with the damage you have.
Google up 'Sea State Tables' and on the Beaufort Scale URL you will find a series of Phots' on what the sea looks like under increasing wind strength.
The preceding Sea State URL tables give wave hights ( in feet ) and the time in between waves etc, also the Sea State ( Numerical value ) at 65 kts around 9. Will give all bloggers some idea of the conditions experienced.
Except for those who have actually been in those conditions I am sure that the majority, if not all who write here have any idea as to what this intrepide young Lady has been through.
For you Jesse " Bloody well done!!". I for one would not go through that for Quids.
Hope you can manage to avoide the next low pressure area for a more comfortable ride.
When you have the time will be interesting to know how you have repaired what you can.
Meantime,
as always,
sail safe and enjoy,
make time, if able,
for plenty of phots' and video.
You can never take enough, beleive me.
Poppa Bear
CAI
When looking for courage and inspiration, we look to you Jessica. AMAZING COURAGE!
Darren
Langwarrin Vic
Hi Jesse
Happy Australia day to you your family your support team and the Jesseaholics.
Richard in Maryland thankyou for the link to see what a rogue wave looks like. My heart plummeted when I watched it.
Jesse has a tendency to downplay the experience she went through which is a typical Australian trait.
I think we can express our fears for her so she can have the courage and fortitude to keep ploughing through those incredible seas.
I know every time I read a bit more about Jesse I end up in tears so I think I have created a flood.
Again happy Australia day everyone
love and hugs
Evie from Bendigo
Hi Jessica
Australia Day – had to write again. We have just been treated to a fly past by an RAAF F1-18??? at 11.15 this morning. It flew past Mt Martha over the bay at a height of about 300ft. Awesome sound. Reminded me of your RAF fly past at the Falkland Islands. I was in the kitchen at the time but not having breakfast. No accidents! Watched it through the window because there was no time to run outside. My dog watched, sitting, beside me and although he normally reacts to Magpies he behaved. Then treated to a fly past by a Kookaburra – obviously disturbed by the noise. What a wonderful day so far.
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
Good News everyone... CBS (in the States) broadcast Abby Sunderland's departure and Jesse's name was mentioned (just barely).
Finally after 100 days at sea!!!
I wonder if it is because it is Australia Day?...
No, wait... they would not know what that is!
G'Day Jesse,
Well done on getting through one hell of an Atlantic storm.
For those bloggers who read this -Google up 'sea state tables'. the first three or four URL's will give you the conditions @ 65 kts plus.The Beaufort URL has series of phots of wave heights etc as wind speed increases.
Having seen sea conditions from the air from calm up to 90 to 100 kts plus from a height of 1500' to 2000' and down to 200' I can assure you all this young Lady has more fortitude than most bloggers here.
Jesse, trust you can get around the next Low for a more comfortable ride.Keep us updated oon repairs if able.
Meantime, once again "Well handled".
Don't forget, if time, and conditions permite...Phots' Phots' and more Phots with video. You won't see those moments in time ever again except in memory so for yourself click when you can.
Sail safe and enjoy!!
Poppa Bear
CAIRNS
QLD
Oh my, precious one! What a terrifying ordeal you have been through! Praise God you are safe!
I've been away from Oklahoma for almost 5 days--am in Washington, D.C. area til Feb 1 and just now had opportunity to login to read your blog and oh, how I was and shocked! My heart has reached the 'pounding out of my chest' stage just reading your entry. I cannot imagine what you have endured, but in true Jessica fashion you have shown us just how brave you really are and that you are an 'authentic sailor'! AND that you in a mighty sturdy little vessel. ....That Atlantic can be really mean...so keep careful watch ahead. Hope I can check in again in a few days. Until then...keep putting those nm behind you and,
YOU GO GIRL
Hugs and prayers,
Janell in Oklahoma, USA
Good luck from Mequon, Wisconsin, USA. - We are all rooting for you!!!
Can I just say, girl you have WAAAAAAY bigger balls then I could ever imagine having. Seriously, you are truley one tough, couragous, talented, inspirational, and amazing chick.
Total and utter respect.
I was the same age as Jessie Martin when he did trip and I was amazed by his adventure, this is even more extraordinary then that amazing feet. As a fellow Sunshine Coast local, you are doing all of us so very proud. The entire country, and WORLD is cheering you on!!!
Well done mate, perhaps once you have concoured the world you can run for PM when you get back?
Pc
Mike Swaine
Hi Jess, loved reading the blog re the knockdowns. They are a bit scarry but you are so on top of your game here, congratulations!!! You are right about the world looking much brighter afterwards. Keep it up, you are doing a fantastic job. Graeme
To Richard in Maryland:
Thanks for the link to the rogue wave video - just one word - WOW!
Cheers from Faye and Max (Mulgrave Vic)
Happy Australia Day, Jess.... I just read that you got a call from 'Big Kev' ;)
How come he's got your number...huh???
Hope things are going well for you out there and we'll hear from you again soon, mate
cheers
Tia
Hi Jesse,
Another fine hot day here is Brisbane. Happy Australia Day. Congratulations on the half way mark. You really are heading home now. You're always in our prayers and thoughts.
Stay strong brave lady and keep the music turned up load. You know that it amuses the dolphins.
Find those kind winds.
June and Richard Thorn
WOW! and WOW! You little Trimmer!
you blo.... beauty! Rest well dear onee and gather your centre. Thank you for the reporting of it....Your faith in that little vessel is certainly well founded. Thank you to the builders, and all those who put it all together.
Call the albatross... sail on silver girl.
Lesley
@ The Griffs of Hillarys Perth WA said...
Also someone wrote that they finally know how to get the colour swiggle next to their name. Can anyone tell me what that means?
I am new to this too (your fault Jesse) but I think they mean you have to create a "Blogger" account. Your name then comes up with the orange "B". The swiggle could also be the "blogger" photo... once you have an account you can use whatever photo you like.
If I am wrong my fellow bloggers will use me for target practice!
I would have been scared to death and had a heart attack if that happened to me. More pictures (please) of the aftermath and let us know how the repairs go (heater, stove, sail, dunny, etc.)
HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY JESS
Hey Jess,
@ Magpie,
Self-conscious much? (just kidding ;-) (or trying to)
Really, I am just kidding! My earlier comment wasn’t really tossed in your direction at any rate; you being one of Jessica’s more ardent supporters.
It was however a very misguided effort at encouraging some people to engross themselves more enthusiastically into Jessica’s magnificent Blog. It was nevertheless off colored, heavy handed and ill-humored and for that I do express much regret.
As you so eloquently put it, “humor IS a very fragile communication” and I do sometimes have an indistinct sense of humor that I occasionally let control my psyche; and when this happens I tend put my foot in my mouth (just ask my wife.)
So to you, Jessica, and any of Jessica’s Jessaholics, who may have taken offence at any of my previous comments, please accept my humble apologies. I shall hence forth become more of a reader and less of a writer; as to not wear out my welcome; at least when it comes to ambiguous discourse.
Mike D
Landlocked in Philadelphia, Pa, USA
Hello from Room 401!
We took a field trip yesterday. (Yes, on a Sunday.) About half of my class, three siblings, and six parents were able to make it to the Minneapolis Boat show.
I wanted the students to be able to make a real world connection and see a boat similar to the boat you are sailing on. I was just expecting to see the boat, however, we got much more. Although it wasn't an S & S... Rick G (a teacher that was helping) at Crow's Nest Yachts was kind enough to have a "teaching moment" with the students. The kids sat up near the front of the boat while he explained port, starboard and other valuable information. Then we were able to go into a few sailboats including a 34' sailboat. The kids thought it was pretty neat to see a boat that was kind of like yours.
Just wondering - If it was wet in your boat, did your life jacket inflate?
Jessica, Thanks for yet another teachable moment.
Happy Australia Day to all of our Australian friends! (And anyone else that is joining in on the celebration.)
Take care,
Best Wishes!
Room 401 - Third grade
Minnesota
It is getting pretty crowded out there! Just found this:
"SMALLEST, solo, unassisted, etc..."
http://www.alessandrodibenedetto.net/
Hang in there Jess! You're a great emblem on Australia day.
Bill
@@@@ Dear Mary from Maine USA, @@@@
In Reply to your comments regarding my posts and your opinion that they have no place on Jessica’s Blog:
Firstly I agree with you when you say when you say that my Blogs are “OFF THE WALL”, I will take that further and say my style of comedy WACKY, LEFT-FIELD, EXCENTRIC, IN FANTACY LAND, some might say it is TRASHY (while being completely CLEAN and devoid of smut).
But if it is trashy then I have a feeling that Jessica might like it. Jessica stated herself in one of her blogs that she was reading “Completely Trashy Novels” as a means of an escape from all that is SAILING. At that time, she could not contemplate to read anything that was about the subject of SAILING.
The timing and subject of your criticism is very interesting as it is Australia Day today in our Southern Land Of The Free. In our national Anthem, “Advance Australia Fair” it talks about the freedom and the fairness that we all share” Freedom of speech is taken for granted, enjoyed and respected, just as the “giving the other bloke a Fair GO”. Our Australia Day would be likened to your 4th of July, where you celebrate all of the above in yours the Land of the Free.
Therefore, my motive is to write and bring the absolute best Wacky, Witty, Off the Wall, Left-Of-Field humorous escapism that I can possibly muster. I bring it, as a piece of myself in honor of what Jessica is, is doing and what she is fighting for. Just as all the other bloggers bring something of themselves.
I am not a sailor, and to me this blog (Jessica’s mission) is more about the battle and the ongoing triumph of the human spirit as displayed in the life of Jessica Watson. This person Jessica Watson was censored and rejected from the society for the person that she was and wanted to become: a young adventurer. Jessica was rejected because she did not fit the mould.
Mary, there was a time that I did fit the mould, as far as you were concerned, and you enthusiastically typed words of great praise in your Blog dated, January 22, 2010 11:25 AM , and I quote:
“Peter Bush giving me the best belly laugh I've had in weeks with his descriptive hair buzz!”
The above praise was set apart on it’s own, from all the other mentions you made in that blog. I can only believe that the laughter that you experienced was a real tonic for you on that day.
And that day was only four days ago.
To Be Continued
Peter Bush
HYDEN, WA, AUSTRALIA
Sweet 16
and all alone
in the middle of nowhere
in a boat overblown
in the dark of the night
in the bowels of the sea
in the heart of a gale
was the Ausie Jesse
in the morning she came out
bid her dolphins hello
and invited them to follow
"just half a world to go!"
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Continuation To:
@@@@ Dear Mary from Maine USA, @@@@
And that day was only four days ago.
The descriptive hair Buzz that you praised me for is WACKY, LEFT-FIELD, EXCENTRIC, IN FANTACY LAND, escapism. But now 4 day later you, personally, do not fancy left field any more you have become Judge, Jury and Blogmaster.
In life I fear to judge people, as there is a final Judge.
In Blogland I refrain from judging Bloggers: I leave that to the BlogMaster. (unless there is a personal accusation, where I am entitled to the right of reply).
Your accusation that I am a drunkard is also incorrect. I do not drink.
As far as the “peoples heads comment”; The only peoples heads that in fear of being “PLAYED WITH” and those who are unable to determine fact from fiction. And even then they, if in doubt, should not enter into judgment, they should leave that to those who are qualified to make better judgments – Like the BlogMaster.
Mary. Our greatest Comical Export to the world is a man who dresses up as a lady: Her Name is Dame Edna Everage. Even us Aussies took a while to get the message (about 20 years) that he was only acting, it’s a joke, it’s entertainment.
He is still dressing up as a woman (at the age of about 70) and brings joy into peoples lives. He is only acting.
Maybe you need a couple of Dame Edna’s in the US of A.
Should this blog not see the light of blogdom, I should believe that all that Jessica is fighting for is to no avail.
Freedom of Speech and Sailing, and the right and the freedom to be yourself.
Regards
Peter Bush
HYDEN, WA, AUSTRALIA
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
As a few readers have already said: Holy crap! What an experience!! But what tough sailors you and EPL have proved yourselves to be! I can imagine that would have been one hell of an experience and a scary one. Full credit to those who built EPL and to you as a sailor.
Hope your stove is working again and that it's been smoother sailing since you wrote your blog.
Sydneysider
Holy Crap!!!...No other words to say! Glad EPL isn't inclined to continue her deep sea diving career! She sure is a most magnificent little boat. Her captain is also pretty amazing! I guess in those conditions there is nothing else you can do but hang on and enjoy the ride! (as mush as you can) I'm so glad that you are safe.
Regards
Robyn, Ipswich (Qld)
Bloody Hell - Thats insane - so glad you got through. I cried when I was reading your blog. So glad you are OK.
Happy Australia Day Jesse !!
It was on this day in 1988 that Kay Cottee was named our Australian of the Year....and of course I'm alluding to the fact that you are already "our" most loved Aussie for 2010 !!
I missed Kev's speech, but will google it shortly. You got a phone call from him ? Wow, that says something !
Incidently the Melbourne newspapers finally did a small patch on you...of all things referring to your blog that you were now "questioning" what you are doing !! I didn't see anything regarding your rounding of Cape Horn.
-ricks (oops,typo I swear)!
Stay safe darling girl.
Hey Jess,
HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY to you and to all Aussies.
It is just past midday here in Brissy, 34 degrees C and a jet has just done a flyover!
Order of the day is bbq lunch
with lamingtons and pav for dessert, swim in the pool, followed by some backyard cricket when the weather cools.
A few friends became Australian citizens today - so that is lovely!
I hope your stove is working and that you have been able to fix your loo.
Fingers crossed that you have experienced the worst of the weather on your journey.
Safe sailing,
Tanya
Hiya, Jess,
We have galeforce winds here in Maine so I'm automatically thinking of you. I keep wondering about your actual human head (not the dunny!!) and wondering if you wore a helmet during the 8 hour storm phase.
I lived in Alaska twenty years ago and I remember hearing that the only brain surgeon in the state wore a helmet when he drove around town! Good thinking, hunh?!
Lots of great Aussie humor in these blogs; I especially love reading the lyrics to Waltzing Mathilda as well as Amazedbyyou's Slang Salute. Excellent! Thanks, ABY!
I also read one of Richie Paris's little quips from yesterday, I think: People at shore asking "What's on?" The crowd answering, "Watson!!!!!" Sounds like a great t-shirt. (Samurai? Flagging McGraths?) Laughin' out loud......
PWB...you're a brilliant writer, absolutely gifted, imo. No judgements at all from here, just defending Susan in Oregon which I didn't need to do and shouldn't have....No, I wasn't accusing you of drinking just putting a word out there in general. I'm sorry if my comments offended you.
I've been writing Jess twice a day since October 18th. I DO have a sense of humor but more importantly, I like to write with care and that's just what I do.
Onward Freedom of Expression and Happy Australia Day to all of you out there!!
With deep love and respect to Jessica as you continue your ride.
I believe in you.
Mary, Maine, USA
Lily in HB - Got it, thanks.
Mary, Maine, USA
Hi All,
Plenty of love in the room, lol.
Hey ♣Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
In Sidinee we just got 3 x F18's that flew over me putting the towels on the Hills Hoist(Foldaline doesn't quite cut it today) and the Teenagers still didn't wake up!
Go Jessica,
Hoo Roo.
Hi Jess wow I get nervous on the sea in a 1 metre chop let alone to be where you are & what you are doing. that must be some ride. In case you ever were to doubt it, you most certainly have nerves of steel & more courage than I know & I am in my 40's...Go Jess you are well on the path of a grand achievement.
Steve C
Hi Jessica,
Glad all is still okay with your travels considering your stormy experience. It reminds me of when I read about Sir Francis Chichester solo trip around the world and some of the storms he battled through.
Thanks for your updates...we are proud of your progress regardless of any records.
Pete (Canberra)
Will we make it to 1000 posts tonight, Maine time?
The wind has stopped, the raging rain has stopped, and it is......quiet.
Thank you to Blogmaster Andrew for all your work reading through the posts and entering them.
Magpie's right.....there is alot of love here.
Group hug with you in the middle, Jess! Powerful Queen Aussie, you're incredible. Safe sailing through the Atlantic.
Mary, Maine, USA
How remiss of me Jesse
HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY!
I read online that you got a phone call from Kevin....true? (didn't/haven't seen his speech).
Could have gone to the day/night cricket match at Adelaide Oval today but opted to watch it on TV, they are televising it as it's a sellout. My son and daughter have gone and taken my son's French Canadian girlfriend , newly arrived in Oz ( they met in Canada and came back 2 weeks ago) with them so that will be an education for her LOL
01-26-10 @ 00:25
Hi Jessica,
After reading all the latest posts, 854 plus a few of the preceding posts, I am amazed at the variety of interpretations and feelings expressed about your latest experience. Some are silly, some are serious, practical, full of wisdom, praise, some are ridiculous, funny, some that can’t believe you survived, some wonder why you would take on this challenge and some wonder why you don‘t quit, after all that, I have come to the conclusion that when a fellow blogger expresses their feelings, whether it’s in Aussie slang or American slang, they are telling you how much you are cared for and thought of, and how much you are appreciated and above all, loved!!!
You have just had quite an experience, and you came through it like the true champ that you are. God Bless you.
Transplanted Aussie (Stephen M), Good luck to you and may God Bless and watch over you.
For RichieParis: Remember I’m 75 so that’s ‘Great Grandpa‘, ha, ha, LOL…… I’m with ya.
I liked how RichieParis said, we do "watch" all your posts the way you describe them. With your descriptive writing, it’s quite a show!!!!
You might consider trading in that porcelain dunny (if it is porcelain) for a stainless steel dunny. Not right now tho. Ha, ha.
Yelling like that does help to relieve stressful emotions, has a tendency to pump you up, and I’m sure the autopilot didn’t take offense. I’ve done it a time or two. Yelling that is, LOL…..
Well Jessica, continue doing what you do so well, and take good care of yourself and them scallywags. You might want to give Chick-With-Attitude something for her throat. LOL……
Loads of love and hugs, your faithful friend, fan and follower.
May God be with you and watch over you and may the angels keep your sails full, and I, I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV
Holy $&;//!!
Jesse you are certainly made of the "right stuff" I'm still catching my breath ! I am sooooo glad you are alright what a scare the epirb must have been. I was in London for Christmas and got to see Mike Perham talk at St. Martins in the field church and we just had a sailors night talk given by Derek Hatfield you are certainly proving yourself to be in good company with a fine and elite group of sailors
please please continue to stay safe!!!!!! Dig deep! Sounds like you got some real heart!!!!
Darren Achim
Skipper "Quest"
Toronto Canada
01-26-10 @ 00:56
Hi Jessica,
Just wanted to wish you, your family, the shore crew and all the people backing you up, plus all my fellow Australian bloggers a “Very Happy Australia Day“. I hope you all enjoy it very much. I wish I was there to help you all with the celebration. Wish, wish, wish……..
Jessica, I hate to say this but,…. I think a little exercise would be a big help for you right now, it would help to loosen up some of those muscles, especially in the back of your legs, I know, it sounds like a cruel suggestion, considering what you’ve just been through, but you know whether or not you need that. It might be enough for you just spiderwalking around in the cabin. LOL….. Just don’t let them tighten up on you.
I hope all is going well for you on your repairs. How did you fare on the mainsail?
I saw where another blogger mentioned that Prime Minister Keven Rudd devoted at least one third of his Australia Day address to the nation to Jessica Watson. I thought that was pretty nice. Yes????
In case you haven’t noticed, your dunny has become very popular.
Well Jessica, take good care of yourself and them scallywags and be careful at all times.
Loads of love and hugs, your faithful friend, fan and follower.
May God be with you and watch over you and may the angels keep your sails full, and I, I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV
Holy moley! I am so glad you are okay! If you weren't already, you are officially a salty sea farer now. I'll be sending smooth calm oceany thoughts your way!
Wow! This post has collected the most posts so far. I guess there were alot of folks wondering when you'd hit the real rough stuff and post it. Sound like fun. A roller coaster can't hold a candle to when your in the air or on the water getting tossed around out of control.
Spike in a blizzard in SD
@Mike D: Jan 26, 1:53am;
it's a shame you feel you need to belittle others who have lesser knowledge about sailing, referring to them as, "misguided".
Let people express their feelings however they may as long they are encouraging and supportive of Jesse and her journey. There is no need to be so technical.
We come from many country's and backgrounds and not all of us are savvy sailors. I love it when I see comments of people who speak very little english, but I understand completely, the message they are trying to convey...so lighten up!
If you have any informative remarks to give us...please do! and I'm sure we'll all be the wiser for it.
My apologies Jesse.
Ben (Qld)
Hang in there Jessica. You are home soon. This is so amazing to follow your boat trip around the world. Good luck.
Jani from Sweden
Jessica
I cannot imagine how you're doing what you're doing. What you're doing and what you'll conquer over the remainder of your journey is totally unbelievable!
Good sailing!
DD
Wow, you are one tough cookie!
I am loving following your journey, keep us informed as usual, would love some more pics.
You are a champ.
XOXOX
@ Ben (Qld)
January 26, 2010 4:47 PM
Please refer to the afore mentioned apology January 26, 2010 11:18 AM
Hi Jess from New England, New Hampshire USA. We are all watching and sending good wishes for a safe trip. We all think you are amazing!
Claudia O
Hi Jessica from New Hampshire USA! We are watching and sending best wishes for a successful & safe voyage! We all think you are amazing. I am posting your voyage on Face Book.
Claudia O
Go Jess Go Jess.You are one tough kid. Keep it up .Coming to see you come though the heads.Sydney.
Danny Wallaroo SA
Hello Jessica, I'm trying to imagine being in such ocean turmoil, being tossed up and down, under and over in EPL, or the fear and terror that may be were in your mind. Maybe you were so fixed on your sailing routine in such conditions that it's only later that you became conscious of fear and terror, or maybe not. I'm thinking too that self reliance leads to a great feeling of exhilaration after coming through the battle. Tremendous, and well done. Happy sailing, Erica (from Brisbane)
I'm curious, did you just let her right herself? When you were inverted, were you shipping water like crazy?
I'm obsessed with your travels, I can't stop checking on you. It is so hard to imagine when you realize you are only 16. I admire your parents too for their confidence in you. Post more photos!
You continue to shine Jessica!!!
Keep at it.
5metreswell
Tasmania
Two of us are soon to embark on our first passage from Cape Town SA to Europe on our gaff rigged cutter. You have given me courage and the belief that we will be OK with the right attitude. Your attitude, to be precise. THANK YOU.
Glenda NSW I often have you cross my mind at which time I pray for you, I know that you are being watched over every minute so bless you and can,t wait till you sail back in, awesome young lady.!!! Glenda
Jesse, you amaze me, I can understand the thrill and exhilaration but it just sounds so terrifying, especially going on for hours like that. I guess what else can you do once you are there, right? Your courage is an absolute inspiration. I was crying too reading your blog! Bet your folks were relieved to hear your voice!!!!! You certainly have my vote for Young Australian of the Year.
Very reassuring to know that Ellas Pink Lady is as tough as any boat out there. Am so proud of you!!!!!
DEBBIE FROM ADELAIDE
Hi Jesse,
Belated Happy Australia Day. I had my whole family including grandchilsren around and I fired up the wood oven and we had a "make your own pizza" day. I hate to think how many were coked but they all went down well
After your voyage you will have quite a few novel things to put on your CV.
Intrepid sailor
Navigator
Fixer of electronic equipment
Short order cook
Washer upper,
Mast climber
Sail mender
Plumber(Sounds better than dunny diver)
There are a lot more including not a very good fisherperson.
But the one thing we want you to become is a homing pigeon so you will set course straight to Sydney ( after a bend or two)
It might be a good idea to have a bit of a go at that heater when you get a chance, Its not going to be too tropical down the south of Tasmania in April/May.
Could anyone please tell me how to contact Abby. I have tried several things but no success.
I think both these young ladies need every bit of help and encouragement they can get so I would like to send her the occasional message
Stay safe little one
Peter Gold Coast.
"...When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure." by Peter Marshall
You are surely a diamond by now.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jesse
Just incredible.
Aunty Chris
Can someone tell me exactly what a knockdown is and how one can recover from being upside down?!?! Wouldn't the cabin fill up completely with water?1??
:-/
Hey jessica,
hey i think its cool that you are out there all by yourself. I would be freaking out if i was you. Does it get lonely out there.
Love,
John Gibbons
P.S. look me up on face book, i have blond hair and very good looking.
all i can say is wow, you've got some real guts, kiddo.
-jw from austin, texas
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